This Thursday, there's a chance to watch Ken Loach films, I, Daniel Blake and Spirit of '45, together with the man himself, plus there's entertainment from Ricky Tomlinson, JB Barrington, Smug Roberts and more in a special fundraiser for the Salford Unemployed and Community Resource Centre.

How ace is this? To be able to watch Ken Loach films, I, Daniel Blake and Spirit of '45 with the director himself, followed by a Q and A with the legend who specialises in social justice.

It's part of an ten hour fundraising spectacular for the Salford Unemployed and Community Resource Centre which, as well as the films and conversation with Ken Loach, also includes contributions from Ricky Tomlinson, Atilla The Stockbroker, Little Hulton's ace poet, JB Barrington, local band, Red Light Effect and singer Liam Caly.

Smug Roberts will host an auction of autographed Ken Loach films on DVD and other items, including stuff signed by actor Michael Sheen, famed for a zillion top roles on stage, screen and tv. There will also be a continuous tombola and the event is supported by a host of MPs and trade unions, including Salford and Eccles MP, Rebecca Long-Bailey.

The income at Salford Unemployed and Community Resource Centre (SUCRC) has been slashed by fifty per cent this year, even though it supports and advises people with benefit and housing issues...

"The idea came about when all the staff and volunteers went to see Ken's latest film I, Daniel Blake; he was dealing with a subject and painting a picture of real life in the UK" says Alec McFadden, SUCRC Manager "In 2017, every day our centre has to deal with issues like poverty, benefit sanctions, suicide, prostitution to feed and clothe children, zero hour contracts and debt. In the last 12 months, three of our clients have had amputations, all related to poverty, austerity, sanctions or homelessness.

"A hundred years ago, Engels wrote about the 'conditions of the working class' in Salford and Manchester; in the 1920s and 1930s Eddie Frow led the unemployed workers against poverty" he adds "That spirit still exists, and determination is alive and kicking in the Salford UCRC. It's good that so many friends are determined to ensure the Centre continues..."

MPs who can't attend, including Angela Raynor and Lucy Powell, have bought a ticket as a donation and these will be given to the Centre's unwaged volunteers.

Update: 20th November: Salford 'Looking For Eric' actor Steve Evets will also be attending the evening

Becky wroteat 1:14:23 PM on Monday, November 20, 2017

Fab event! Really looking forward to it! I think it's a great event that should be supported no matter where it's held - it might spread the word a bit further too.

Alice wroteat 10:10:47 AM on Sunday, November 19, 2017

Great idea and I hope well supported but why at the Miners in Moston when it's the Salford unemployed. There are many venues in Salford which would be appropriate and would be more relevant. Perhaps have the event for Greater Manchester unemployed which would more inclusive.